John Cena Classic Format Still Being Figured Out By WWE

The John Cena Classic announced at WWE Backlash 2026 is still very much a work in progress, with WWE yet to determine what the event will actually look like. Dave Meltzer reported in a Wrestling Observer Daily Update that the format had not been finalized when the announcement was made, with the company prioritizing the Backlash reveal over having every detail nailed down. As of now, the date, location, and definitive format for the John Cena Classic all remain unconfirmed.

John Cena Classic Format And Fan Vote Mechanics Unclear

At Backlash, Cena described the John Cena Classic as an event featuring main roster versus NXT matches with a fan vote determining the winner of the new John Cena Classic Championship — regardless of in-ring outcome. “You, the audience, the fan, will vote to crown the champion,” Cena said. “A superstar might not win their match, but their hustle could earn your respect, win your heart, win your vote, and you can still crown them the John Cena Classic Champion.” Speculation has split between a tournament format where wrestlers advance via fan vote and a single card of individual matches with all participants eligible. Meltzer’s report makes clear neither has been confirmed.

Club WWE Voting Access And Bayley Pitch For Tatum Paxley

Questions have also emerged about how the fan vote will work, including whether voting will be open to the general public or gated behind the Club WWE membership program Cena announced alongside the Classic concept. Cena himself has acknowledged the concept could be a complete failure, framing it as a reflection of his personal values rather than a polished product. Bayley has also publicly responded to a reported pitch for her to face NXT Women’s North American Champion Tatum Paxley at the event, with Paxley confirming she’s ready for the match in a social media exchange.

Source: Wrestling Observer Radio.